Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles

Name: Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh & Wholesome Recipes

I absolutely love making Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles for a fresh and light dinner option. The combination of succulent shrimp and creamy Alfredo sauce served over spiralized zucchini noodles is not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional pasta. It takes only a few minutes to prepare and is packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a dinner party. The vibrant colors and rich flavors come together beautifully, and every bite is a delight.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:53:28.711Z

When I first tried making Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles, I was amazed at how easy and delicious it turned out. The key here is to sauté the shrimp just until they're perfectly cooked, which keeps them tender and juicy. I love using fresh garlic and a hint of lemon to brighten up the dish. The zoodles cook quickly, absorbing just the right amount of the creamy sauce.

To make the sauce even richer, I like adding a touch of cream cheese along with traditional heavy cream. It enhances the texture without overwhelming the dish. Pairing it with freshly grated Parmesan really takes it to the next level, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. I can't get enough of this dish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh and healthy twist on traditional Alfredo
Quick dinner option ready in just 25 minutes
Succulent shrimp paired with a creamy, rich sauce

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp

Achieving the perfect shrimp texture is crucial for this dish. When cooking the shrimp, use medium heat to avoid toughening them. You’ll know they are done when they turn a bright pink color and curl slightly. A common mistake is overcooking, so keep a close eye on them; about 3-4 minutes total should suffice for medium-sized shrimp. If you’re unsure, check the center for a pearly finish, which indicates they're cooked thoroughly but still juicy.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor of the shrimp, consider marinating them briefly before cooking. A simple mix of lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of paprika can amp up the flavor profile and create a delicious depth. Remember to reduce the seasoning in the skillet since the marinade will already contribute some saltiness.

Making the Alfredo Sauce

The success of the Alfredo sauce lies in the balance between creaminess and richness. Using both heavy cream and cream cheese allows for a beautiful texture while keeping it lighter than traditional butter-laden sauces. When combining these ingredients, use a whisk and maintain a low heat, stirring continuously until everything is melted and smoothly integrated. This prevents the sauce from curdling and ensures a glossy finish.

Parmesan cheese plays a vital role in adding umami and creamy flavor. For the best results, opt for freshly grated Parmesan over the pre-grated alternative. You will notice a significant difference in flavor and texture. If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute, just remember it has a saltier flavor, so adjust your added salt accordingly.

Working with Zoodles

Zucchini noodles, or zoodles, provide a light and healthy base for the sauce, but they require special care to prevent them from becoming soggy. When adding them to your sauce, don’t overload the skillet; if necessary, do this in batches. Cook them just until they are slightly tender, about 2-3 minutes. They should remain al dente, providing a nice bite, rather than mushy.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, consider spiralizing the zucchini noodles a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. This helps maintain crispness when you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can meal prep the shrimp and sauce separately. Just reheat them gently before combining with the zoodles.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Alfredo:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the shrimp is pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Prepare the Sauce

Add the heavy cream and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Mix in the grated Parmesan and continue stirring until well combined.

Combine Zoodles and Shrimp

Add the spiralized zucchini to the sauce and toss to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the zoodles are slightly tender but still al dente. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use large shrimp and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Shrimp Alfredo with Zoodles, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a nice contrast to the creaminess of the sauce. Pairing the dish with a simple side salad can also help balance the richness, providing freshness and crunch with each bite.

For a touch of elegance, serve with a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, which complements the dish beautifully. This pairing enhances the fresh maritime flavor of the shrimp while cutting through the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store the shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the zucchini noodles may release moisture over time and can soften. It’s best to reheat gently on the stovetop over low-medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

While this dish is not ideal for freezing due to the zucchini's moisture content, the Alfredo sauce can be frozen separately for up to a month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adjusting the consistency with a little milk or cream as needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use something other than zoodles?

Absolutely! You can substitute zoodles with regular pasta if you're not looking for a low-carb option.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and choose a dairy-free cheese alternative.

→ What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Fresh or frozen large shrimp works best. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

→ Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes! You can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine the ingredients right before serving.